Eat Dessert First! Embracing Unconventional Leadership in International Schools

Eat Dessert First! Embracing Unconventional Leadership in International Schools

In international education, leaders often navigate a complex tapestry of cultures, expectations, and traditions. The metaphor “Eat Dessert First!” is a compelling invitation for leaders to challenge the status quo and adopt unconventional leadership approaches. Leaders can inspire critical thinking and integrity within their schools by prioritising what is typically reserved for later.

The Essence of Unconventional Leadership

Unconventional leadership involves stepping beyond traditional boundaries to explore innovative strategies that foster a dynamic learning environment. This leadership style is characterised by adaptability, creativity, and a willingness to embrace change. In international schools, where diversity is a cornerstone, such leadership is pivotal in addressing unique challenges and opportunities.

Fostering Critical Thinking Through Unconventional Methods

Encouraging critical thinking requires leaders to model and promote questioning, analysis, and reflection. By adopting unconventional leadership practices, leaders can create an environment where critical thinking thrives:

• Encouraging Open Dialogue: Leaders who foster open communication allow students and staff to express diverse perspectives, leading to a richer educational experience. This openness challenges conventional hierarchies and promotes a culture of inclusivity.
• Implementing Innovative Curricula: Moving away from rote learning to embrace project-based and experiential learning encourages students to think critically and solve real-world problems. Such approaches require leaders to support and implement non-traditional teaching methods.
• Promoting Reflective Practices: Encouraging self-assessment and reflection among students and staff leads to continuous growth and improvement. Leaders who model these practices set a standard for the entire school community.

“Sometimes we need huge obstacles that require us to operate differently. Covid did that to all schools worldwide. What about making a conscious decision that a project, initiative or solution can NOT be completed the same way as it has been previously? What if you create an artificial barrier intentionally to shake up the status quo?” (Greg Parry, GSE CEO)

Learn more about other contrarian approaches to leadership:

“Best Practice Education Can Be Contrarian”

Integrity as a Pillar of Unconventional Leadership

Integrity is foundational to effective leadership. Unconventional leaders uphold integrity by:

• Leading by Example: Demonstrating honesty and ethical behaviour sets a powerful precedent. When leaders act with integrity, it permeates the school culture, influencing students and staff alike. (Source)
• Making Values-Based Decisions: Prioritising ethical considerations over convenience or tradition reinforces the importance of integrity. This approach may involve making difficult choices that challenge the norm but ultimately strengthen the school’s moral framework. (Source)
• Building Trust: Transparent and consistent actions build trust within the school community. Unconventional leaders recognise that trust is essential for collaboration and the successful implementation of innovative ideas.

Case Studies of Unconventional Leadership in International Schools

Several international schools have embraced unconventional leadership to positive effect:

• Reimagining Leadership in International Education: Some schools have transcended traditional management paradigms by adopting adaptive models that address contemporary challenges. This shift encourages leaders to think beyond conventional methods to foster environments conducive to critical thinking and integrity. The excellent book The School I’d Like offers a child’s perspective on how schooling might be different. The US-based organisation What School Could Be offers similar insights.(Source)
• Alternative Leadership Models: Schools worldwide have implemented creative leadership structures that empower their communities. By focusing on inclusive and innovative approaches, these institutions have redefined success in education. (Source)

“I once piloted an “Other Shoes Project” which encouraged motivated leaders to step into the role of another person for a fixed time period of at least one month. By participating directly in a new role the mentoring, coaching and learning process is much more effective. It is far more powerful than learning from a textbook or even a workshop. You get to truly experience the challenges of new experiences.” (Greg Parry, GSE CEO)

Challenges and Considerations

While unconventional leadership offers numerous benefits, leaders must navigate potential challenges:

• Resistance to Change: Introducing unconventional methods may face opposition from those accustomed to traditional practices. Leaders must be prepared to address concerns and demonstrate the value of new approaches.
• Balancing Innovation with Stability: While innovation is crucial, maintaining a stable environment is also important. Leaders should strive for a balance that supports growth without causing unnecessary disruption.
• Ensuring Cultural Sensitivity: In diverse international school settings, leaders must ensure that unconventional practices respect and honour various cultural backgrounds. This sensitivity fosters an inclusive environment where all students feel valued.

Embracing the “Eat Dessert First!” philosophy symbolises a bold departure from convention, encouraging leaders in international schools to adopt unconventional leadership styles. By doing so, they create vibrant educational environments that prioritise critical thinking and integrity. Such leadership not only enriches the school community but also prepares students to navigate and contribute positively to an ever-changing world.

In the spirit of “Eating Dessert First,” let us lead with innovation, courage, and an unwavering commitment to integrity, inspiring our schools to reach new heights.

If you want to learn more about the steps required to set up a school, check out some of our other articles:

– Steps to Setting Up a New School

– 10 Steps and Articles on How to Set Up a New School

– GSE International School Franchise Models

GSE provides specialist services to set up all educational institutions, including international schools, kindergartens, vocational colleges, universities, and online/virtual schools.

GSE has previously operated or currently operates projects in the following locations:

India, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, East Timor, Mongolia, Myanmar, South Korea, Saudi Arabia (KSA), UAE, Equatorial Guinea, Zambia, Kenya, Libya, Bahrain, Iraq, Japan, Indonesia, Australia, USA

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CEO and Education Expert Greg Parry

Internationally renowned for his expertise in education leadership, Greg Parry’s vast experience includes leadership of projects for education institutions throughout Australia, the Middle East, the United States, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and China. Recognised for his numerous contributions in the education arena, Greg has received the Minister’s Award for Excellence in School Leadership based on improvements in school performance and a range of successful principal training and leadership development programs, as well as the School of Excellence Award for Industry/School Partnerships and the School of Excellence Award for Technology Innovation. His company, GSE (Global Services in Education), has been recognised as having the Best Global Brand in International Education in 2015 and 2016.

Considered one of the premier experts in his profession, Greg has trained teachers and principals worldwide in areas such as critical thinking, language development and leadership. His expertise in school start-up projects, leadership and curriculum development has made him a sought-after authority in this discipline.

Global Services in Education set up and operate schools in all parts of the world. Governed by a philosophy of global citizenship, every member of the GSE team shares a passion to help shape international education and student achievement through inspiration and collaboration.
Our goal is to meet the highest objectives of every school, teacher, student and parent, with an unwavering dedication to quality education, shared ideals and intercultural perspectives.